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FIFA21 Formation-Guide: The 4-2-3-1 System

Author:

Stephan Murphy

FIFA 21 FUT
If you are looking for the classics among the FIFA line-ups, you will probably not be able to avoid the 4-2-3-1. We will tell you the best tricks around this formation.

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If you are looking for the classics among the FIFA line-ups, you will probably not be able to avoid the 4-2-3-1. We will tell you the best tricks around this formation.

With FIFA 21 the gameplay has changed a lot. Agile dribbling and the return of crosses & headers have made the offensive game more flexible. With the last title update the meta has changed again due to a different game tempo. Today we show you the 4-2-3-1 lineup and how to play it best.

The 4-2-3-1 in FIFA21

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The classic 4-2-3-1 is a more defensive lineup among the FIFA classics. With three CAM players you are flexible in the offensive game and can control your only point with different variations. The double six provides the necessary stability in the backward movement.

The formation is a true all-purpose weapon, which is well staffed in all parts of the field.

Tactics for the 4-2-3-1

Your penalty area presence can sometimes be rather weak due to a single striker. The right tactic is therefore crucial. We recommend these settings, but you can also vary them as you wish:

Defensive style:

  • Balanced

  • wide: 5-6

  • depth: 6-7

Offensive style:

  • Long ball

  • wide: 5-6

  • Players in penalty area: 5

  • corners: 3

  • free kicks: 2

With these settings your defenders will not interfere too much with the offensive game. This way you are well prepared for a possible counterattack.

The offensive tactic “Long ball” is best suited for a quick build-up style. Thanks to your three CAM players, you can quickly overcome the center of the field and put your striker in a good position.

Playing instructions fort he 4-2-3-1

The 4-2-3-1 makes special demands on the respective positions. Make sure that your personnel fit well into the game system.

  • Full-back: High speed, good passing and physical values

  • Defensive midfield: A defensive CDM with good defense and passing stats, an offensive CDM with decent defensive stats and good stats in the offense (shooting and passing)

  • Outside CAMs: Fast wing players with a pace of 90 or more are recommended

  • Central CAM: The classic playmaker with good speed, but outstanding values in shooting, passing and dribbling

  • Striker: High speed, good shooting and dribbling values (high physique is also an advantage)

Our tip: Fast wing players are best suited for the 4-2-3-1 system. Here you can also use other formations such as a 4-4-2 or a 4-3-3 and adjust the individual positions using the individual settings.

Player Instructions

  • Outside defender: Staying behind when attacking

  • Defensive CDM: block passing ways, stay behind during attacks, cover the middle

  • Defensive CDM (offensive): close passing ways, cover center

  • Outside CAMs: For crosses into the penalty area, strengthen defense

  • Central CAM: Balanced Defense

  • Striker: Pull outwards

If you give your striker more space, he can open up gaps in the opponent’s defense. This way, your central offensive player can mutate to a striker on call.

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